The author undertakes the task of pin-pointing the contradictions of Wallerstein's capitalism-idea with special regard to that aspect which can be found in his advancement concept by which he measures progress with the decrease in the level of exploitation. (This is just the opposite of the process which in fact, has taken place in history). In contrast to Wallerstein (and in harmony with Marx), the author argues that capitalism – although it has increased exploitation – has represented advancement in every respect, at the same time creating the conditions of going beyond it. Zalai expresses his doubts whether the centre-periphery relationship truly increases impoverishment and whether the impact of the centre to pull should not be taken into account with the same weigh.